Promcore duo Girl Crush’s “Baby Steps” is a synth-led leap of faith

Girl Crush – comprised of Sweden's Ottilia Kjulsten and London's David Sugar – are a relatively new outfit of the purest pop pedigree, with Kjulsten previously signed to PIAS/Kobalt and Sugar to Kitsuné. Fans of Sälen and similar naïve-style synth-pop will hardly have to scratch the surface to find something to love about their new single "Baby Steps".

Simultaneously nostalgic yet ultra-modern-sounding, "Baby Steps" is a playfully hypnotic ode to breaking the ice over a relationship about to blossom. A surprisingly dance-worthy beat is softened by gentle electronic blips, bursting out into an R&B-influenced chorus.

"'Baby Steps' is all about taking a leap of faith," Kjulsten explains of the track, released this Valentine's Day. "You like me, I like you. Let's not mess about! It's about taking reins of your romantic situation and go for it."

Girl Crush define their musical genre as "promcore", a reference to the American prom tradition and its skewed depiction of late childhood/early adulthood and the accompanying heartbreak and uncertain futures. The duo's project extends beyond the sonic sphere, with each track released accompanied by a limited edition piece of fashion merchandise.